Simpler Recycling: what workplaces must do
The recycling rules for businesses and other workplaces in England, including the 2027 deadline for small businesses.
What must be separated
- Dry recyclables: plastic, metal, glass, paper and card. Paper and card should be kept separate unless your collector takes them together.
- Food waste.
- Residual (general) waste.
Choose container sizes and collection frequency that match how much you produce.
Key dates
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| 31 March 2025 | Workplaces with 10 or more employees must arrange separate collections. The Environment Agency is the regulator. |
| 31 March 2026 | Councils must collect the core recycling streams from households. |
| 31 March 2027 | Workplaces with fewer than 10 employees must comply. Kerbside plastic film collections are due to start for workplaces and households. |
Getting set up
Speak to your waste collector about which streams they collect together and what containers you need. Keep your transfer notes. See business waste duty of care.
Spotted something wrong or out of date? Tell us and we will check it.
More guides
Digital waste tracking: what businesses need to know
The new government service for recording waste movements: who must use it, from when, and how to get ready.
Business waste: your duty of care
What every business must do with its waste: storing it safely, using registered carriers and keeping transfer notes.
Do I need a waste carrier registration?
Who needs to register as a waste carrier, broker or dealer, and how customers can check a registration.
Garden waste: compost, council bin or collection?
Choose a route for grass, branches and garden clear-outs, and understand why soil, rubble and fencing need a separate conversation.